Congressional Debate in Columbia

Hulshof has represented Missouri's Ninth District in Congress for nearly 10 years, easily winning re-election since he defeated long-time Democratic Rep. Harold Volkmer. But, Burghard said, Hulshof has a more difficult campaign this time.

"He's never faced a veteran. He's never faced a small businessman. He's never faced someone who has been a full-time candidate out there, hard charging all over this district every single day," said Burghard.

Hastings, however, hit hard on pocketbook issues during the debate.

"The Progressive Party wants to reform taxes," he said. "I personally want to put Medicare and Social Security tax on inheritance, and that's a powerful difference I have from Jim Talent and Ken Hulshof."

Burghard said he switched from the Republican Party to the Democratic Party, and he believes he can attract conservative votes.

"I think the people are really fed up and tired with the direction this country is going in on a variety of issues, and they're going to express that on Nov. 7," he said.

Libertarian Party candidate Steven Hedrick did not participate in Tuesday's debate or in Monday night's debate at Truman State University in Kirksville.